So you are a cat lover that has likely made friends with the community cats in your area, or wish to do more for them. Taking care of a community cat, also known as a feral or stray cat, involves providing for their basic needs, as well as medical & social.
Let's discuss How do I take care of my Community Cat responsibly?
1. Check if there is an existing Feeder & work together:
Stake out feeding times (usually early mornings or nights) to see if there is someone feeding the cats. Many feeders tend to be older people who may not be as tech savvy or resourceful, thus sharing resources & knowledge can be very helpful.
Consider joining or forming a group of like-minded individuals who are also caring for community cats by creating an online Facebook group, or a chat group. Setting up a feeding schedule can also give the regular feeder a break.
2. T-N-R (Trap - Neuter - Release)
Ensure all cats in the area are sterilized. You can apply for free sterilization slots via Cat Welfare Society or SPCA. After neutering, release the cat back to its territory.
This helps control the population & reduces the likelihood of cat fights = reducing the likelihood of injuries & an expensive vet visit.
Report any cat abandonment to NParks & keep a log of all the cats in your area.
3. Feeding regularly & responsibly:
Feed a relatively good quality diet & provide fresh water in a consistent location at the same time each day. Most feeders feed twice a day (AM & PM). Avoid putting the food directly on the dirty ground or in sharp cans. Use disposable containers or clean pamphlets. Avoid feeding human food or bones & clean up immediately after feeding.
4. Be Considerate while Feeding:
Accept that not all residents are animal lovers & our aim is to keep complaints to a minimal as this can result in the cats facing a threat of removal from authorities. This means that we should be considerate while feeding or caring for our cats. Feed away from human traffic (away from staircases, letterboxes, busy footpaths) to avoid attracting unwanted attention to the cats. Place water bowls in inconspicuous locations, e.g. being pillars. Change water daily to prevent mosquito breeding & label water bowls. Do not leave any food behind & do not place too many cardboard boxes, creating unsightly messes. Keep the area clean at all times.
5. Providing medical care:
Apply Revolution monthly.
Take notice of the cat's health & observe any changes in behavior & eating habits. Just like humans, community cats will get injured or fall sick. Part of being a responsible caregiver is to attend to their medical needs as well. If you notice any signs of illness or injury, bring to the vet immediately. Engage a professional trapper if you're unable to trap. Consider setting up a fund or seeking donations to cover medical expenses & work with stray friendly clinics.
6. Education & Outreach:
Do not be afraid to reveal your identity as a community cat caregiver. We should work closely with the authorities to handle any grievances from residents & take the opportunity to educate your community about the importance of TNR & responsible cat care. Encourage neighbors to support your efforts or get involved. Educate young children on how to approach the cats. Remind them that cats DO NOT have 9 lives & are part of the ecosystem. If you don't like them, that's fine. Just ignore them & don't hurt them.
You can find a downloadable Infographic below, as well as on our Instagram Page @thecatwhisperer
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